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WilderHerb's ECHINACEA

If you have serious medical problems, see a doctor.  This herb should be considered a nutritive tonic which aids various systems within the body, due to the type nutrients contained within the herb.  Herbs are food additives and not controlled by the FDA.  If any adverse symptoms arise, like stomach upset or diarrhea, take less or discontinue.

                     ECHINACEA    

While my common name is the Purple Coneflower,   I am more well known by "Echinacea" my proper name.  I am a stately plant 3 feet high and over 2 feet wide.   Pink-purple pedals grow from the conical center of my flower. Both my flowers and my roots are the basis for my fame. Take me in small doses throughout the day, rather than fewer doses that are big. Take me for two weeks and then delay, wait a week before continuing.   I am so good for all that ails you, it is impossible to explain  in words that are clear and rhyme too.   So, here it is in the main, how I help you heal from wounds to

flue.

  1. The body produces a substance called Hyaluronic Acid (HA) which strengthens tissues between cells, creating a barrier to the spread of infection. During a viral infection, enzymes are created which attack HA, causing the tissue to act like Jell-O turning to water. Echinacea protects HA from the enzyme, thus hindering the spread of viruses.

2. White Blood Cells are the body''s little soldiers which surround and destroy both viral and bacterial invaders. Echinacea helps this process. Echinacea is not only antifungal and antibacterial, it also stimulates both White Blood Cell and T-Cell production. (Echinacea increases the number of T-cells by 30% more than conventional drugs and is being studied by AIDS researchers.)

3. Echinacea stimulates the Lymphatic System which carries waste and toxins away from infections.

4. Wound healing is enhanced by Echinacea's boost to blood clotting and the accelerated regeneration of both Fibrous Connective Tissue and Granulomatous Tissue necessary for healing.

5. Echinacea's cortisone-like activity makes it anti-allergenic, as well as an anti-inflammatory agent.

6. Echinacea regulates the body temperature whether too cold or too hot.

• Michael Castleman The Healing Herbs, The Ultimate Guide to the Curative Power of Nature's Medicines
• Dolfyn Crystal Wisdom
• Mannfried Pahlow Healing Plants

Recommended Reading available at barnesandnoble.com

• David Hoffmann Holistic Herbal, The Complete Ilustrated
• C. Norman Shealy, Consultant Editor Alternative Medicine

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Count beginning November 5, 1999